Question

which scenario is allowed under the free - exercise clause?
a parent leads a prayer in a public park.
a teacher gives out crosses at school.
a doctor charges religious patients less money.
a worker places a menorah in the lobby at city hall

Explanation:

The Free - Exercise Clause of the First Amendment protects the right to practice one's religion freely. A parent leading a prayer in a public park is a private religious practice in a public space that does not violate the Establishment Clause (which prohibits the government from establishing a religion) and is a valid exercise of religious freedom.

• A teacher giving out crosses at school: Schools are public institutions, and this would be seen as promoting a particular religion (Christianity, as crosses are a Christian symbol) in a public school setting, which violates the Establishment Clause.
• A doctor charging religious patients less money: This is a form of discrimination in pricing based on religion, which is not protected by the Free - Exercise Clause and is also illegal under anti - discrimination laws.
• A worker placing a menorah in the lobby at city hall: City hall is a government building. Placing a religious symbol (menorah, a Jewish religious symbol) in a government building lobby could be seen as the government endorsing a particular religion, violating the Establishment Clause.

Answer:

A. A parent leads a prayer in a public park.